ISLAND HEIGHTS, NJ – On July 12th 2021, Patrolman Mellott was dispatched to River Ave for a child locked inside of a vehicle. Upon arrival, Patrolman Mellott observed a frantic mother outside of the vehicle. The mother reported that after she had secured her child into a car seat, she accidentally left her keys on the seat.
As the mother went to access the driver’s door of the vehicle she had realized the vehicle was locked. Patrolman Mellott quickly requested first aid as a precaution, as well as dispatching a duty tow truck to preform a lock out kit on the vehicle. After minutes passed, Patrolman Mellott observed the child starting to sweat. From his training and experience he knew that the child could be in grave danger in this heat.
With the consent of the mother, Patrolman Mellott acted quickly and broke the window of the vehicle. At this time, he was able to open the door and retrieve the child. First aid arrived shortly after to clear the child of any medical issues. As if rescuing a child wasn’t good enough, Patrolman Mellott went above and beyond the call.
After speaking with the mother who was extremely grateful of his valiant effort, she spoke of financial difficulties as to how she would repair her window.
Without hesitation, Patrolman Mellot made arrangements to pay for her window. In conclusion, the Island Heights PBA and the Island Heights First Aid squad donated enough funds to help cover the costs of a new window.